Adrian Peterson: Star RB Getting Back in Shape Is Great News for Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings invested $96 million into star running back Adrian Peterson before the start of the 2011 season, $36 million guaranteed. They had one of the biggest scares of all when they saw him tear up his knee late in the year, but they finally have some good news on that front.

According to KFAN 100.3 (via Scout) in Minnesota:

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Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is scheduled to start running on Feb. 28 ... “I’m definitely making improvement. I’m starting to get my muscle tone and strength back into the legs,” Peterson told Paul Allen on KFAN. “I’m happy with the progress I’ve made so far. I’m extremely happy."

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Nobody knows Peterson's body better than himself, and for him to get up and moving is a great sign.

The Vikes were fearful that Peterson wouldn't be 100 percent for Week 1 of the 2012 season, but this is a huge step forward for that.

The report indicates that AP plans to return to Minnesota in late February and stay through early March. Meanwhile, the Vikes organization will be prepping for a very, very important offseason.

Christian Ponder will be entering his second season in the NFL and his first full season as a starter. This offseason is a huge for him and the team.

Minnesota has major needs on both sides of the ball and at every level of the offense and defense outside of the offensive backfield.

The main reason for that is Peterson's presence. He means everything to this team.

Plenty more has to go forward and progress, but Peterson's rehabilitation is great news for the Minnesota Vikings in an important offseason.